What's a good brand / model for a beginner violin?

I could really use some advice - I would love to pick the violin up - just for fun - but there's not a lot of affordable music stores where I live. I've tried looking online for what the best most affordable student violin would be - but all I keep getting are stores trying to sell one - the best deals I can find are online, in my area they're just way too expensive - but I know you're supposed to play them before you buy them - can anyone offer me any tips? I've been searching for weeks and can't find an honest answer, everyone's just trying to sell you something - all I need is a good sounding, basic, no frills violin, that's as affordable as possible - thanks!